There may also be agencies in your area that focus on placing freelancers, so ask around and do a Google search to see what turns up.

Open an Etsy Shop

If you’re a crafty mom, consider opening an Etsy shop.

I know many stay-at-home moms (and even one mom of twins who works full time) who sell their wares online.

If you knit your kids’ sweaters, make reusable diaper pale liners, re-purpose old sweaters, or even paint landscapes in your spare time, consider selling your art on Etsy.

Be sure to read this article about selling on Etsy before you open your shop.

Land a Part-Time Job

Look for a part-time job in your area of expertise.

Again, start with your network.

Can you get a part-time job at a place of previous employment?

Do any of your friends or colleagues know of a job that would be great for you?

If not, look for online networks that advertise jobs specific to your sector.

I have quite a bit of fundraising experience, so I was able to find a part-time job on my state’s nonprofit job board.

Babysit or Nanny for a Friend

If you have friends who are working parents, odds are they’re paying for childcare.

Lots of parents would love to hire a nanny for their child, but think they can’t afford it.

You could be the answer. Offer to watch your friends’ kid(s), full or part-time, for a reasonable rate.

No idea what to charge?

Check out Care.com’s babysitting rates calculator.

Babysit or Nanny for Someone You Don’t Know

If you don’t have friends who need childcare, sign up (for free) for Care.com or Sittercity to find parents seeking a nanny or sitter.

You can search for jobs that fit your schedule and lifestyle, then apply for them.

Before you apply, be sure to submit a good cover letter and resume and read tips for how to get hired.

Participate in Market Research Studies

Focus groups can be an easy way to make money on your own schedule.

You might go into an office to taste food and give feedback, or have research staff come to your house and interview you about a product.

In return, you’ll get paid anywhere from $25-175.

Depending on how long the study takes, it can be a great return on investment.

To find reliable market research companies in your area, try asking around and googling “market research [city name]” or “focus groups [city name]”.

Donate plasma

This definitely crosses a line for some folks, but “donating” plasma can be a steady source of income.

For 45 minutes of your time, you can get paid $20-50.

Some donation centers allow you to come in twice/week, while others limit it to once/month.

I donated plasma in college and, if you decide to go this route, be aware that you’ll likely run into some sketchy characters in plasma donation centers.

Start a Blog

Many moms jump to blogging when they’re thinking of ways to earn extra income.

It’s a viable option, but the truth is, competition is fierce.

If you’re going to start a blog to make money, be sure you have defined goals, a strategy, and knowledge about how to monetize it.

Know that it will take time to make money and that, in the first few months (or years), you won’t get many visitors.

This post will get you started with affiliate programs.

Throw “Tupperware” (or Other) Parties

If selling products is your thing, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to become a consultant through Tupperware, Pampered Chef, Mary Kay, Cutco, eBay (I use BiggerBids.com) and even a green products company.

If you go this route, just be sure not to impose on your friends and family members.

Inviting them to parties is fine.

Making them feel obligated to come to multiple parties and buy something they don’t need is not.

Have a Garage Sale

Do your spring cleaning early and sell everything you might otherwise donate.

Go through clothes, toys, and household goods.

If you haven’t used something in the past 6 months, or it doesn’t fit anymore, get rid of it.

Garage sales can be a lot of work, but it might be worth it for you.

Before you commit to having a garage sale, use a Yard Sale Checklist.

Consign Old Clothes and Toys

A step up from a garage sell and a step down (effort-wise, anyway) from selling on Ebay, consigning is a great way to make money from clothes and toys you don’t use anymore.

Especially if you’re into name brands.

Research consignment shops in your area to see what they’re looking for, then bring your used goods in.

Keep in mind there are different types of stores and events that accept consignments.

How to Barter in Markets While Traveling

The hustle and bustle, energy, and chaos create a unique cultural experience.

Learning how to barter in markets can be a challenge and even a competition among travelers as they try to find out who can get the lowest price.

But travelers can take bartering too far.

One of the reasons we support local markets when we travel is to help invest in the local economy, so it’s important to make sure you’re bartering to pay a fair price, rather than bartering just to barter.

It’s great to get a good deal, but in the ideal situation, both parties are happy: You’re satisfied with your bargain and the seller is feels like you settled on a fair price.

How to barter in markets

Read on to learn how to learn how to barter in markets around the world.

5 thoughts on “Earn Money from Home – 12 Ways to Make Money as a Stay-at-Home Mom”

I definitely don’t have the skill required for Etsy, either (though I wish I did!). But I say find what works for you. I’ve been able to find consulting and part-time gigs, and I’ve done a couple of market research studies. Plus, I’m currently selling a few things on Ebay. It adds up!

Oooohhh I love the childcare idea! I had a friend who did some type of medical billing online till her son was 9 months. He was too mobile to dedicate the hours after that, but it sure helped for a little while!

I have a friend who nannied for a younger baby starting when her son was around 12 months old. It worked out great for them. I occasionally watch a friend’s daughter who’s my son’s age and on most days it’s actually easier with two than one — they keep each other entertained. The medical billing-type job is a great idea, too. My 16-month-old won’t let me get any work done while he’s awake, but nap time is very productive for me!

Everything looks good except for the donating plasma option. Not sure what others would think, but it’s definitely a no-no for me.
Unless if it’s for donating for charity, once in a while, I would do it. But for making money????

Anyway, what attracted me in the first place about this post is the baby picture….